Conservation genetics and the role of botanical gardens

Abstract

Botanical gardens once played a key role in plant taxonomic research. For the majority of gardens, this is no longer the case. In recent years, botanical gardens have turned to conservation as one of their major goals. A “Botanical Gardens Conservation Strategy” was launched by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Botanical Gardens Conservation Secretariat with emphasis given to wild plants of economic use. It is stated by advocates of this policy that botanical gardens are ex situ centers par excellence. However, the role that botanical gardens can play in conservation of plant species may be questioned. Doubts include the problem of in situ vs. ex situ collections in general, and the present status of collections held by botanical gardens in particular. Normally, genetic variation within species, the concern of conservation genetics, is totally underrepresented in botanical gardens, a considerable percentage of plants is mislabeled, and proper documentation is weak. It is nevertheless argued that botanical gardens can play an active role in conservation efforts. First, they can influence broad public opinion and create proper education programs. Second, they shoud establish ex situ collections for local wild plants and could propagate and provide material for reintroduction programs. To achieve these goals botanical gardens have to base their activities on a sound basis, and have to collaborate with research institutions and conservationists.